New Delhi:
Security commanders and envoys from various Commonwealth nations spent Thursday touring Delhi. The sightseeing couldn't have been more serious: determining whether venues and stadia will be safe for the 2010 Games.
The 70 delegates visited the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where the opening and closing ceremonies will be held. They also went to the Commonwealth Games village on the banks of the river Yamuna. 8000 athletes and officials will stay here during the event.
Several nations including the UK and Australia have expressed concerns over security. Earlier this year, the British badminton contingent pulled out from the World Championship at Hyderabad after reports of a possible attack.
The field trip was successful according to the Indian officials in charge. "Some nations had expressed concerns but they were given presentations and they are quite convinced," says G K Pillai, Home Secretary.
But privately, Indian security agencies have plenty to worry about. After a series of racist attacks against Indians in Australia, there are fears of reprisal attacks against the Australian delegation. Security agencies also admit that the venues should have been ready by now, so that drills and checks could begin.
More than 30 heads of state are expected in Delhi for the Games. Part of the challenge will be to fortify not just the capital but other cities as well.
The 70 delegates visited the Jawaharlal Nehru Stadium, where the opening and closing ceremonies will be held. They also went to the Commonwealth Games village on the banks of the river Yamuna. 8000 athletes and officials will stay here during the event.
Several nations including the UK and Australia have expressed concerns over security. Earlier this year, the British badminton contingent pulled out from the World Championship at Hyderabad after reports of a possible attack.
The field trip was successful according to the Indian officials in charge. "Some nations had expressed concerns but they were given presentations and they are quite convinced," says G K Pillai, Home Secretary.
But privately, Indian security agencies have plenty to worry about. After a series of racist attacks against Indians in Australia, there are fears of reprisal attacks against the Australian delegation. Security agencies also admit that the venues should have been ready by now, so that drills and checks could begin.
More than 30 heads of state are expected in Delhi for the Games. Part of the challenge will be to fortify not just the capital but other cities as well.
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